General News
22 August, 2024
Community gives feedback on transmission plan
Locals were given the opportunity to ask questions, express their concerns and give feedback on the Draft Transmission Plan when Vic Grid hosted a drop-in consultation session at Warracknabeal Town Hall last month.
Yarriambiack Shire Council mayor Kylie Zanker said the drop-in session was a welcome opportunity for the community to offer their ideas, opinions and ask questions.
She said feedback included questions around fire breaks and preparedness, clustering of lines and the aesthetics of the lines across the landscape, and the proximity of the transmission lines to homes.
"One community member noted that ‘getting the information is important as you hear so many stories, it's good to see on the map where things are heading’," she said.
A map showing the proposed transmission line projects was displayed alongside the draft transmission plan allowing attendees to see the exact areas where the projects will impact and pinpoint their concerns.
Some attendees said they supported the economic opportunity that will come with this proposed development, while others raised concerns about visual amenity, land productivity and the environment.
A webinar consultation session was also held at 6pm for those who couldn't attend the in-person session
Feedback and questions from the 37 people who attended the webinar included concerns over the visual aesthetics of the lines, fire risk, impact on food/farming production, and insurance costs.
VicGrid chief executive Alistair Parker expressed his thanks to everybody who made time to come along and talk about the projects.
"It was a great chance to hear from locals about their concerns, and to get their feedback as we work towards delivering the first Victorian Transmission Plan," he said.
"We’re developing a long-term strategic plan - the Victorian Transmission Plan - and we’re seeking input from local communities so we can get this right.
"VicGrid is changing the way renewable energy zones are planned so that regional communities, landholders, and Traditional Owners have a real say in the process."
Cr Zanker encouraged anybody who still had questions or feedback to submit them during the consultation and draft process.
Consultation on the guidelines is open until August 25, and consultation on the study area in the guidelines is open until September 30.
Project plans, feedback forms, and details of upcoming consultation sessions can be found online at engage.vic.gov.au/vicgrid
Hard copy feedback forms and reply-paid envelopes are available by calling 1800 418 341.